Working a job or running a business while caring for a loved one can be a tough task. You have to balance between making your friend or family member feel loved and comfortable, and working a job to pay the bills. Additionally, with caregiving expenses the overall monthly expenses are likely to be higher and thus quitting a job may not be an option. If you find yourself in a situation where you are the primary caregiver and still have to work, below are 5 tips that can be helpful.

Find a More Flexible Job

The first option is to consider a flexible job that will leave you with enough time to care for your loved one. For instance, if you are currently working fulltime, you could consider a part time job opportunity in a field that pays well. A good example is a medical or dental assistant. Some dental offices hire assistants without any experience or formal training but in some cases you may be required to take a short course in a San Antonio Dental Assistant School. Other flexible opportunities you can consider include data entry, medical billing, freelance writing, transcription, translation, online tutoring, ecommerce stores, blogging, marketing, consultancy, customer service and book keeping, to mention but a few.

Have a Schedule

Review your work plan and the activities that need attention around the house and come up with a schedule for each day. Having a caregiving plan will keep you on track and ensure that everything is done on time. Every night before you go to bed, review your schedule for the next day so that you wake up prepared. Also, consider planning your meals in advance.

Buy Groceries and Other Supplies in Bulk

Going to the store every day is time consuming and thus you should consider shopping for all the supplies you need in bulk. Buying in bulk can also save you a few bucks every month. Make a list before you head to the store to ensure that you do not forget anything.

Exercise

Taking a few minutes to exercise every day can give you an energy boost, reduce fatigue and boost your feel-good hormones. Consider at least 150 minutes of cardio each week and a few minutes of stretching exercises. The workouts can be split to 30 minutes each day for five days. With a good workout routine, you will have more energy to care for your loved one and work your job. Additionally, exercise can boost the quality of your sleep and the strength of your bones.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

When you feel so worn-out, financially drained or emotionally drained, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Putting on a brave face when you’re feeling too drained may affect the quality of care you give to your loved one, your performance at work and your health. Thus, when you are feeling stretched, request a friend or family member to assist with caregiving, finances or just offer a shoulder to lean on.

With proper panning, you will be able to balance your job and caregiving responsibilities. However, note that you will not always have it all together. Don’t feel guilty when you feel tired and need some time off.

Author’s bio: Maggie Hammond is a retired nurse and freelance writer, exploring and writing in the U.S. in retirement. An advocate for public health and nursing qualifications, she feels passionate about raising awareness of the current strain on public health organizations. Email: maggiehamm

Chris' Master Degree Thesis Spiral of Silence: Caregiving, Stress and its Impact in the Workplace was accepted by the faculty at Gonzaga University in May of 2016 earning an MA Degree in Communication and Leadership. Email me at chris@thepurplejacket.com for information on the financial impact of caregiving. Proud to be an Alumni of Gonzaga University 2016

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Our Three Part Caregiving Story…

Nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in 2015, Our Caregiving Story "In Sickness and In Health: A Couple's Final Journey" written by Diane Lade and photgraphed by Carline Jean from The South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Click on the photo to be taken to the original story. Photo Credit Carline Jean/Sun-Sentinel

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Affectionately known as “The Bow Tie Guy” in many caregiving circles, the story of Chris MacLellan and his partner, Richard Schiffer was chronicled in a 2015 Pulitzer Prize nominated story “In Sickness and In Health: A Couple’s Final Journey” about their journey of caregiving. The story told of the challenges that LGBT partners have in dealing with the medical and legal system, but it also told of the love and joy that Richard’s last years had on their relationship. Out of this experience Chris has written a powerful and compelling book “What’s The Deal With Caregiving” that informs caregivers on how to deal with the challenges that they will encounter, regardless of sexual orientation, family situation or age. Chris’ soothing style is conveyed through his caregiving blog, The Purple Jacket and podcast entitled Healing Ties where he connects with caregivers and industry experts around the globe through story sharing while providing timely tips for family caregivers. Chris’ Master's Degree thesis entitled, “Spiral of Silence: Caregiving, Stress and its Impact in the Workplace” was accepted by the faculty at Gonzaga University, where Chris earned a Master’s degree in Leadership and Communication. Chris is the founder of The Whole Care Network and presents regularly on topics that impact family caregivers.